Golf season gets an early start at La Crosse expo
Golf enthusiasts of all ages gathered at the Aimee L. Mathy Center on Viterbo University’s Campus for the annual La Crosse Golf Show. The event, which took place between Feb. 28 and 29, attracted more than 900 golf enthusiasts and vendors from the greater La Crosse area. “The expo is the women's golf teams major fund raiser,” said Viterbo women’s golf coach Ken Barrett, adding that “It allows us to do extra things that were not previously within the budget.”
The event provided opportunities for golfers of all ages and skill-levels to prepare for the upcoming season. An indoor driving range allowed participants to test their abilities, and a putting green was set up for the return of the Pepsi Putting Challenge. Participants were encouraged to try to sink a putt and win prizes, consisting mainly of Pepsi products. PGA teaching professionals were available throughout the event, and on Saturday morning young golfers were offered lessons from members of Viterbo women’s golf team. Expert custom club fitting was one of the various services available to patrons.
The La Crosse Golf Show promoted an equipment swap program designed to raise funds for the women’s golf program while also allowing individuals to earn money on unused equipment. Patrons were encouraged to bring golf equipment such as clubs, shoes, bags, and collectibles to the event. Once a price had been agreed upon, items were advertised at the event and available for purchase. Seventy percent of the proceeds of each sale went to the vendor, while the remaining 30% benefitted the women’s golf program.
Every individual who purchased a ticket was automatically entered into a drawing for various prizes, such as tickets for the American Family Insurance Champions Tour and Great River Golf Trail Passes. According to Barrett, “We had 18 golf courses donate rounds for the event,” adding that “next year, we hope to double that amount.”
Overall, Barrett was satisfied with the outcome of the La Crosse Golf Show. “My favorite part of the event is seeing old friends and talking old times. It was nice that so many golfers joined us this weekend,” said Barrett.